PROCEDURE 1 | GENERAL GUIDELINES |
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SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS
“Safety and Handling” of the wheelchair requires the close attention of the wheelchair user as well as the assistant. This manual points out the most common procedures and techniques involved in the safe operation and maintenance of the wheelchair. It is important to practice and master these safe techniques until you are comfortable in maneuvering around the frequently encountered architectural barriers. Use this information only as a “basic” guide. The techniques that are dis- cussed on the following pages have been used successfully by many.
Individual wheelchair users often develop skills to deal with daily living activities that may differ from those described in this manual. Invacare Top End recognizes and encourages each individual to try what works best for him/her in overcoming architectural obstacles that they may encoun- ter, however, ALL WARNINGS and CAUTIONS given in this manual MUST be followed. Tech- niques in this manual are a starting point for the new wheelchair user and assistant with “safety” as the most important consideration for all.
STABILITY AND BALANCE
WARNING
ALWAYS wear your seat positioning strap. Inasmuch as the SEAT POSI- TIONING STRAP is an option on this wheelchair (You may order with or without the seat positioning strap), Invacare Top End strongly recommends ordering the seat positioning strap as an additional safeguard for the wheel- chair user.
The seat positioning strap is a positioning belt only. It is not designed for use as a safety device withstanding high stress loads such as auto or aircraft safety belts. If signs of wear appear, belt MUST be replaced immediately.
To assure stability and proper operation of your wheelchair, you must at all times wear your seat positioning strap and maintain proper balance. Your wheelchair has been designed to remain upright and stable during normal daily activities as long as you do not move beyond the center of gravity.
Virtually all activities which involve movement in the chair have an effect on the center of gravity. Invacare Top End recommends using seat positioning straps for additional safety while involved in activities that shift your weight.
DO NOT lean forward out of the chair any further than stability will allow. Make sure the caster is pointing in the forward position whenever you lean forward. This can be achieved by advancing the chair and then reversing it in a straight line.
GENERAL GUIDELINES
Part No. 1054916 | 13 |